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India has always been multi-religious and multi-cultural, it has been influenced by various religions over the years. These caves in Maharashtra are a great symbol of such varied influences.
These destinations are not only the monuments but also an integral part of Maharashtra tourism. The state has the most number of caves in India and has been an experimental ground for Hindu, Jain and Buddhist rock-cut architecture.
A trip around some of the famous heritage cave sites of Maharashtra is interesting for sure!
Ajanta Caves
Ajanta Caves date back to 2nd century BC. The paintings and sculptures in these monuments are one of the finest surviving Indian Buddhist religious art.
The intricate carvings of the Jataka tales are a major attraction here. Ajanta Caves are the World Heritage Sites that are very popular in India.
Photo Courtesy: Freakyyash
Ellora Caves
Ellora Caves are one of the top rock-cut cave architectures in Maharashtra. Dating back to 5th-10th century, they're UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
There are 34 rock-cut cave temples built by 3 major religious entities: Hindu, Jain and Buddhist. Today, they're the protected monuments under ASI.
Photo Courtesy: Y.Shishido
Karla Caves
Karla Caves served as the Buddhist monasteries during 2nd C - 5th C. They belong to the Hinayana Sect of Buddhism.
Karla Caves are located near the hill station of Lonavala and they have the Buddhist Viharas (prayer hall) and Chaityas.
Photo Courtesy: Pradeep717
Elephanta Caves
Elephanta Caves are located in Elephanta Island around 11km from Mumbai. These heritage sites mainly consist of Hindu rock-cut caves and a few Buddhist caves.
Many sculptures are destroyed during the colonial rule and they still stand the test of times. Elephanta Caves are famous for the sculptures of Shiva and mythological stories of Shaivism.
Photo Courtesy: Ricardo Martins
Bedse Caves
Bedse Caves are one of the oldest caves in Pune, Maharashtra. They are said to be built during 1 BC.
The famous forts of Lohagad, Tung, Tikona and Visapur are situated near Bedse Caves. These monuments are some of the popular monsoon destinations in the state.
Photo Courtesy: Abhilashiva
Aurangabad Caves
The 12 Buddhist rock-cut shrines in Aurangabad Caves are some of the tourist attractions in Aurangabad. These heritage sites are some what overshadowed by the popular Ajanta and Ellora Caves.
Aurangabad Caves also have some fine carvings and paintings of that bygone age!
Photo Courtesy: Saniyunus
Bhaja Caves
Bhaja Caves are a group of 22 rock-cut monuments. They're situated near Lonavala and are some of the popular tourist attractions.
Bhaja Caves once served as a major Buddhist settlements.
Photo Courtesy: Elroy Serrao
Pandavleni Caves
Pandavleni Caves are situated in Nashik. They belong to the Hinayana Buddhism.
Pandavleni Caves was earlier called as 'Trirashmi Caves'. These are some of the famous caves in Maharashtra.
Photo Courtesy: Rashmi.parab
